High street fashion retailer, Primark, has added to its adaptive clothing range, with input from RiDC panel members.
The company came to us at the end of 2023 for insight into disabled people’s attitudes to and experiences of adaptive clothing. The views our panel members shared helped Primark launch a four-piece lingerie range designed for disabled people.
Last December, we carried out further research for the retailer, asking our panel members whether they buy adaptive garments, about the challenges they faced buying clothes, and the impact those challenges had.
Over 800 RiDC panel members took part in the survey.
- Three quarters (75%) of respondents said they find it difficult to get accessible clothing
- Seven out of ten (70%) of those surveyed stated they must spend more on clothing that meets their needs
- 80% said they feel excluded from buying fashionable clothes
- Three quarters (75%) of respondents who reported difficulty finding clothing that meets their needs said that this has led to them being in a situation where they have felt uncomfortable, such as in social settings, on holiday or attending weddings.
- Two in five (42%) said that they often cancel plans due to difficulties in finding the right clothing.
In response to the findings, Primark has launched a 49-piece adaptive clothing range for men and women. The collection has been developed with award-winning adaptive fashion designer and disability campaigner. Victoria Jenkins. It includes wardrobe staples such a T-shirts, trench coats and jeans, all with features designed around the needs of disabled people or those experiencing temporary disability.
Commenting on the launch, Ann-Marie Cregan, Trading Director for Primark said:
“Primark has always stood for making affordable fashion accessible for everybody and every body. There are millions of people in the UK today whose needs aren’t being met on the high street. This collection is an important step in ensuring that more people can find clothes that help them to look and feel their best without the high price tag that often comes with more specialist items or having to invest in expensive alterations.
“It has been amazing to collaborate with Victoria and bring her expertise and experience in adaptive fashion design to our teams. From discreet magnetic closures and waist loops on this season's denim, to hidden tube access and soft, friction-free pyjamas, we’ve worked hard to incorporate adaptive features without compromising on style or comfort.”
Primark has also been working with AccessAble who have developed detailed access guides for all its stores, to enable disabled shoppers to plan their visit with confidence.
CEO of RiDC, Gordon McCullough, said:
“We’re delighted to have given Primark further insight into the shopping needs of disabled people. As our panel members views have shown, it’s not just a jumper or a pair of jeans, accessible fashion is about feeling comfortable, confident and included.”
The range will be available in 31 stores nationwide and through the 113 UK stores offering Click & Collect from Tuesday 28th January.
